A Vessel Under Sail

A Vessel Under Sail, created by Jean François Millet (French, 1814-1875) in 1847, is a refined example of 19th-century French printmaking. This work, classified as a print, was executed as an etching in warm black ink applied to subtly textured ivory laid paper, a combination that highlights the rich depth achievable in the medium.

The composition focuses intently on a single ship navigating the open sea, likely referencing the strong maritime culture of France during the mid-19th century. Millet, widely celebrated for his association with the Barbizon School and his powerful depictions of agricultural laborers, here turns his attention to the powerful forces of nature. The etched lines are used skillfully to define the rigging and hull, capturing the drama and inherent vulnerability of a vessel under sail. The use of warm black ink contrasts sharply with the pale paper, enhancing the atmospheric effect of the scene, suggesting either the calm following a storm or the dramatic twilight light over the ocean.

This exploration of non-rural subjects demonstrates the breadth of Millet’s artistic interests before he fully dedicated himself to peasant iconography. The historical and technical value of this piece ensures its place in the Art Institute of Chicago’s renowned collection. As many of the artist’s prints from this era fall into the public domain, they continue to be foundational resources for the study of 19th-century graphic arts.